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Dogs bark. It’s natural. But have you ever wondered why dogs bark anyway? Depending on the situation and the dog, Fido may bark for a variety for reasons including but are not limited to the following.

· Fido is happy.

· Fido can’t contain his excitement over something.

· Fido may be bored.

· Fido is feeling anxious.

· Fido is afraid of something.

· Fido is saying “Hello!”

· Fido may be feeling aggressive.

· Fido wants your attention.

· Fido is not really feeling well.

As mentioned, it’s normal for dogs to feel inclined to bark. You should expect it as a dog parent. It’s unfortunate that if the dog is allowed to get away with his excessive barking most of the time, it can be hard to control his behavior and even correct the problem with barking. This then results to frayed nerves, sleepless nights for you and even for your neighbors, and discord in your community. In short, a problem barker has a negative effect on you as the dog’s parent, your neighbors, and almost everyone your dog comes across with daily. NuVet Labs understand how this can be stressing you out so we’ve compiled these helpful tips to help you manage the situation when you’re living around the problem barker.

1. Don’t yell at your dog.

Yelling at Fido never helps you or him. You give Fido the impression that you enjoy barking each time you yell. The best way to teach him to follow your example is by speaking in a calm but firm tone of voice when dealing with him or other people when he is around.

2. Teach your dog to follow a command to be “quiet”.

Dogs are intelligent creatures and can be taught and made to understand when it is acceptable and not acceptable to bark. Train him to keep “quiet” by teaching him patiently about the command to be “quiet” until he learns to pick up your instructions.

3. Positive reinforcement

Achieve your goals in the baking department by giving Fido treats as rewards whenever he follows your command. This way, the positive behavior is reinforced and will help him stop barking at the wrong time eventually.

4. Mental and physical activities

Have you ever tried being at home all day without anything to do? If you did, there’s a huge chances you’ll be barking, too, like Fido. Keep in mind that a bored dog isn’t a happy dog. If you see your canine companion spending most of his time sleeping and has less engagement with you or your other family members, this can cause a variety of problems for your furry friend. Aside from boredom, your dog can turn to an anxious dog.

Anxious dogs have a tendency to bark so prevent this from happening by finding time to engage with your dog through a physical or mental activity for at least an hour a day. You have the option of breaking this up in increments of 5, 10, and 15 minutes per activity. Also make sure that your furry friend’s mental alertness is also attended to. Why not try cheese, a Kong matched with a peanut butter, or any kind of reward or chew toys specially made for dogs? Keep in mind that a bored dog will also chew things aside from barking, so address these unpleasant behaviors by engaging Fido in mental and physical activities regularly.

5. Consistency

Since you are training your dog to learn a new behavior, consistency is one of the keys to get him to be successful. Make sure you are consistent in addressing the problem barking so you don’t confuse him and make the problem barking worse by sending him a mixed message.

There is an underlying reason as to why Fido is barking and you have to find it out. He may be feeling out of place, is hurt, or he may be telling you a message. You’ll need to be patient and observant so you can determine what your puppy’s behavior is telling you.

2. Use sound.

Your dog may be barking because of some frightening sound he hears in his environment including other people’s voice or other dogs barking around. Block these out by using music that will make him calm down. You can also use his favorite cartoon show like Scooby Doo so his focus will be taken away from the noise.

3. Remove the stimulus.

Your dog may be barking because he is getting a view of other dogs passing by your house through your windows. If that’s the case, maybe it’s time to put some curtains or blinds. You also have the option of keeping your dog out of the problem room. In addition, you can keep him out of the places where he’s not allowed through the gates of your home. If your dog’s reason for barking is loneliness due to being isolated, maybe it’s time you bring him to doggie daycare or get him a new friend.

4. Evaluate your own expectations.

You may have brought your dog home because he is super cute and you’re thinking and hoping that he will play with the kids when they’re awake and in the mood for playing and sleep for the rest of the day. But your expectations may not be met.

Let us tell you a story. Fido started barking all night long when everybody was in their bed sleeping. Fido was bored and feeling anxious and what he wanted to do is spend time with his dog parents and family. So when he woke everyone up and his family can’t handle his excessive barking any longer, he was let out in the backyard even if it’s still the middle of the night. He barked restlessly awakening the entire neighborhood. The results were a sleep-deprived and angry family and sleep-deprived and really unhappy neighbors. Because of this, Fido’s family is considering getting rid of him.

From this story, we learn that if you don’t have the time to spend with a dog and you can’t give Fido the attention he needs from you, then don’t adopt him just because he’s cute. You’ll only do more harm than good so be sure to have realistic expectations when adopting a pup.

5. Ask for help from a professional.

If all else fails, seek the help of a professional in dealing with your dog’s disappointing behavior. Dog trainers are experts in this field and will be happy to work with you and Fido. Ask around from dog loving families and friends or inquire from local pet stores. They may know reliable dog trainers and can recommend them to you.

Important Note on Bark Collars

Bark collars do not work for the following reasons.

Dogs build a resistance to the shock induced by bark collars or to the squirt coming from the collars’ citronella. When you remove the collar to start training Fido using treats as reinforcement, you may have a hard time due to his motivation threshold being higher than normal.

Bark collars do not address the reasons why your dog may be barking, including boredom, loneliness, anxiety, and others.

When other dogs in the area bark loudly, it can cause the collar to squirt citronella or shock your dog. When you speak loudly or when you shout, it can also do the same thing, which doesn’t benefit your dog in any way.

It’s always been great bringing puppies to different places because it is an enjoyable experience going out. You can have fun together without having to visit the same areas all the time. Remember that no matter the season, there is always something nice to do. All you have to do is check out different events that cater to puppies and their owners, such as the ones listed here.

Dog Days of Summer

Happening in Ocean Pines, MD on July 18, this benefit event is free and perfect for different people who love hanging out with their dogs. They also have different exhibits and demonstrations to entice more and more people to visit and help raise funds for the Worcester County Humane Society.

More information is available at http://www.dogfriendlyoc.com/event/dog-days-of-summer

Yappy Hour

At the Ritz-Carlton of Dana Point, CA, you can find the perfect venue for find food and drinks that can be enjoyed by both you and your dog. Going to this event can greatly help certain organizations such as Canine Companions for Independence.

If you want to learn even more, you can visit http://www.bringfido.com/event/17027/

Pup Night at PNC Park

Pup Night is a great place to enjoy baseball with your dogs. Finally, here is an event to put together your baseball passion with your love of dogs. Ticket sales will all be remitted to local shelters, so enjoy the Pittsburgh Pirates at the PNC Park with all of your friends.

Learn more information from the Pittsburgh Pirates website – http://pittsburgh.pirates.mlb.com/pit/ticketing/pup_night_form.jsp

Bark in the Park

New York is another city where sports lovers can meld their athleticism with their passion for dogs. The Dodgers will be playing the Mets and at the same time, they will be endorsing the North Shore Animal League America. This organization is one of the largest animal shelters on the planet that practice no killing.

Learn more at http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/nym/ticketing/group_offers.jsp?group+bark_in_the_park

Walk, Run & Wag 5k

Marathons don’t have to strictly be for people. This Denver, Co event by International Hearing Dog, Inc. is a great way to get your exercise fix while helping out a wonderful cause.

If you have ever seen Austin Powers, the hilarious comedy starring Mike Myers playing the duel lead role of Austin Powers and the nefarious Dr. Evil, then you are undoubtedly familiar with Dr. Evil’s show-stealing cat, Mr. Bigglesworth. Some of you may not know but Mr. Bigglesworth hails from a distinctive breed of cat called the sphynx. In an effort to educate our readers on this sweet-natured and often called dog-like cat, here are 9 interesting facts about the sphynx.

1. Not really exotic

Despite their name and their uncanny resemblance to the cats seen in ancient Egyptian artwork and artifacts, the sphynx actually originated in Canada, which is pretty interesting considering their lack of fur.

2. Not actually hairless

Even though they appear to be hairless, the sphynx actually has a downy, peach-fuzz like coating covering their body.

3. Higher maintenance

One might think that because these particular felines lack an abundance of fur that they are much easier to maintain. The opposite is actually the case. The sphynx requires regular bathing to keep it’s skin from getting overly oily, which most sphynx owners will admit can leave a residue on clothes, bedding and furniture. Their ears also require frequent cleaning to prevent waxy buildup. Also, their web-like feet and dexterous claws require cleaning to prevent dirt and other buildup from accumulating.

4. Good nutrition is necessary to maintain skin health

A high quality supplement can provide a sphynx with a valuable source of nutrients to keep its unique skin healthy and looking its best.

5. Coloring

The color of a sphynx’s cat’s skin is actually the color its fur would be if it had fur.

6. Heat-seeking

It will probably come as little surprise but the sphynx is partial to warmth and can often be found seeking it out. Computers, heaters and other cozy spots are their favorites. You may even find a sphynx snuggling up under the covers. In colder weather a sphynx will usually appreciate a sweater.

7. Big eaters

The sphynx has a reputation for having a voracious appetite and loves to eat. This is because the sphynx has a very active metabolism, which causes the cat to become hungry quite often.

8. Very lovable

Ask any sphynx owner and they will tell you that you won’t find a more lovable, playful cat that enjoys frequent snuggling.

9. Don’t forget the sunblock

Make sure to stock up on cat-friendly sunblock to help keep your sphynx from getting sunburned. Because it loves to be warm the sphynx can often be found basking in whatever sunny spot they can find. As a result, it is not uncommon for a sphynx to experience sunburn, which can be prevented with good sun protection. Don’t hesitate to consult with your veterinarian when it comes to your kitty and good skin care.

A feline loving, 7-year-old recently asked us: “why are cats always so calm?” What a great question we thought. This simple thought led us to ponder even further why cats, in many instances, appear quite calm. We delved a little bit deeper and observed some calm cats to see what keeps these little fur balls so cool and collected. Keep reading to see what we found out.

What keeps a cat calm?

A loving home – A loving home is safe and secure and a place where a cat does not feel threatened. Within a loving home a cat will receive plenty of attention and or course, lots of love.

A stimulating environment – A stimulating environment consists of plenty of playtime with fun cat toys such as little catnip balls or laser pointer. Cats also enjoy observing the world around them – so a nice window seat or high-up perch where Fluffy can relax will keep kitty mentally active and thus calm and happy.

A nutritious diet – By feeding kitty a nutritious diet you can help your feline ball of love maintain good health. And a healthy cat is a much calmer cat.

A cat buddy – Cats can do pretty well by themselves but if you work or are not home all the time cats can certainly benefit from having a cat pal they can play and socialize with from time to time.

A dog buddy – Many cats generally do good with dogs, so if a second cat is not in the cards for your home, you may consider a friend of the canine variety to share your kitty’s space with.

Regular veterinary check-ups – Another great way to keep your cat calm is by making sure she is healthy. Seeing the vet at least once a year for routine vaccinations and a thorough check-up will ensure that your favorite feline has a clean bill of health.

With summer just on the horizon you can pretty much assume that there is going to be some fireworks coming up too. Not just because of the 4th of July holiday but summertime seems to be when fireworks are at their peak usage. Unfortunately, many dogs can be alarmed and fearful of the sharp, abrupt and loud sound that comes with the spectacle of fireworks. If your dog is one of these sensitive pups, here are a few things you can do to help your pooch feel more at ease around fireworks.

Be Ready

If you know that a fireworks-filled event is coming to your neighborhood then you might choose to make this an opportunity to head out of town and visit some friends or family – away from the fireworks. It is not always feasible to get away, especially around the 4th of July but knowing when fireworks will be coming can also help you do some of the following things to help prepare your dog for the noisy festivities.

Create a safe place

Like their distant wolf cousins, dogs are happy to have a den of their own, which is where they feel safe. In many homes, dog parents will choose to have a crate or other space that is just for Fido, which acts like their den. Before the fireworks start blasting, make sure your dog’s special place is safe and secure. This is where you can keep your pooch. It is generally a good idea to shut out as much of the noise as possible by closing windows or placing a thick heavy blanket over your dog’s crate. Maybe even try to procure some harp music to play as dogs have been shown to enjoy harp music. Try and stay calm for Fido. Chances are you might become agitated knowing your pup is going to be uncomfortable. Remember Fido can sense this and you don’t want him to feel any more fear.

Desensitize

You can try to desensitize your pup to the sound of the fireworks by gradually exposing him to the sound on a regular basis. You can locate sound samples of fireworks on the Internet to play around your four-legged friend. Start out with the volume low and gradually increase it to the levels that might be encountered inside your home during a fireworks show. The more you dog is exposed to this sound, the less likely your dog will be negatively impacted by the sound of the fireworks later.

Have Fun

Another great way to get your dog less afraid of fireworks is to create a fun environment during a fireworks display. The best way to do this is to play with your dog and reward him for his jovial behavior. Make sure your dog is in the midst of a good time when you reward him, as we want your pup to make positive associations not negative ones. Petting or giving your pup treats when he is scared will only tell him that fearful behavior is okay.

See your Vet

If you are finding that your pooch is having a very hard time around fireworks to the point where you are concerned, don’t hesitate to see your vet. He or she may prescribe medication to help your dog have an easier time during this particularly noisy activity.